Girl power is strong at the Manatee Division of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps in Yankeetown, Florida. Female cadets make up about one third of the total membership with most ranking at petty officer third class or higher. Leadership positions in the unit are filled by these young women and they often go on to be midshipmen, instructors under 21 years old.
BELOW: Christy Pusey (middle) was promoted from ensign to lieutenant junior grade. Cmdr. Gail Ryan (left) and Lt. Todd Dunn (right) presented her commission and shoulder boards.